Superoxide dismutase (SOD)

Preliminary

Mechanism of Action

SOD catalyzes the dismutation of superoxide radical (O₂⁻) into molecular oxygen (O₂) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), which is subsequently neutralized by catalase or glutathione peroxidase. Chaga contains exceptionally high SOD activity — reported at 20–50 times the levels found in other medicinal mushrooms (and 20× higher than Agaricus bisporus). This enzyme activity contributes to Chaga's status as one of the most potent natural antioxidant sources by ORAC testing. However, oral bioavailability of exogenous SOD is debated, as gastric acid and proteases may degrade the enzyme before absorption.

Research Notes

ChagaMushroom

SOD activity in Chaga has been measured at levels substantially exceeding other medicinal mushrooms (comparative studies cited in USDA ORAC assessments and Tufts University testing). Chaga consistently ranks among the highest ORAC-scoring natural products. However, the clinical significance of oral SOD supplementation is contested: a 2013 review (Rosa et al., Antioxidants & Redox Signaling) noted that exogenous SOD faces significant bioavailability challenges due to enzymatic degradation in the GI tract. Enteric-coated or liposomal delivery may improve absorption. Found in BOTH wild sclerotia and cultivated forms, but higher in wild specimens exposed to environmental stress.

Found In 1 Herb

Chaga

Mushroom

3D Molecular Structure

Metalloenzyme (antioxidant enzyme)

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Superoxide dismutase (SOD)

Metalloenzyme (antioxidant enzyme)Bioactive phytochemical with therapeutic properties

Representative pattern: C₄H₂NO

Atoms

Carbon

Oxygen

Nitrogen

Hydrogen

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